Window blinds have been in use for centuries, maybe not in the form that we are familiar with today, but historically all blinds have had the same functionality. Desert dwellers, for example, have been recorded to of used wet cloths to cover the windows of their shelters. These cloths block the sun and acted as an additional cooling device, much like a modern air conditioning unit. Even the early Egyptians already had a concept of their own when it comes to window blinds. The Egyptians used reeds from the Nile strung together to keep prying eyes from their windows. Meanwhile, the Chinese used bamboos to gain a similar effect. Bamboos, by the way, are still being used today in countries in Asia. When the Middle Ages came, more elegant and finer cloths were used to drape the windows and around the poster beds, where they offered protection from drafts.
Even the iconic Venetian blind, which was actually invented in Persia, has it's place in history. It was the traveling Venetian traders which brought these blinds to Venice and Paris thus most often credited as the inventor of this type of window blinds. The Venetian blinds became so popular that they were included in historical paintings, being part of the detailed background.
Today window blinds have become more practical with diverse usage. This may be due to the advent of various technologies in materials used in creating window blinds. Blinds can be used to block unwanted heat of the summer sun but at the same time keep in the heat during the winter or colder months.
Although history has seen an evolution in design, however the basic function of restricting the field of vision and controlling sunlight still remains.
Window coverings are a necessary feature in any home, to control sunlight and provide privacy from curious neighbors. Sunlight is a welcome addition in most homes, providing light to create an open feeling. However, intense or direct sunlight can be difficult visually, contribute unwanted heat, and fade carpet and furniture. Therefore, it is important to choose a window covering that will add both
function and style to your living environment. A variety of window covering options offer a multitude of features. Each treatment has both positives and negatives. Price and budget is usually one of the many determining factors in selection of an appropriate window covering. It is best to also take into consideration the durability, available styles, effectiveness, application, type of window, features, and expected life of the contending window coverings.
POSITIVES
Roller blinds
+ Retractable for unobstructed view
+ Easy to measure for and install
+ Clean look
+ Some fabrics will provide high level of light exclusion
Vertical Blinds
+ Ability to cover tall window or door openings
+ Retractable for unobstructed view
+ Hardwearing, long life expectancy
Pleated Shades
+ Some styles block light very well
+ Some styles can open from the top or bottom
+ Retractable for unobstructed view
+ Soft appearance
+ Can be shaped for conservatory roofs
Venetian blinds
+ Large number of colors and finishes available
+ Easy to measure for and install
+ Retractable for unobstructed view
+ Graduated control of sunlight possible
Wood Blinds
+ Available in painted and stained finishes
+ Blend well with shutters in the same home
+ Several slat sizes
+ Retractable for unobstructed view
Woven Shades
+ Easy and quick to install
+ Can contribute to a casual or rustic decor
+ Available in a number of materials (woods, grasses, fabrics) and finishes
Plantation shutters
+ Extensive life expectancy
+ Most durable window covering available
+ Can open louvers or panels to control light and visibility
+ Large range of paint and stain color options
+ Can add value to a property
+ Various panel configurations and shapes possible
+ No danger to children from dangling cords
NEGATIVES
Roller blinds
- Some fabrics will allow a lot of light to penetrate through the shade
- Dangling chains and cords
Vertical Blinds
- Less popular in domestic installations
- Average ability to block full sunlight
- Dangling chains and cords
Pleated Shades
- Shaped blinds can be difficult to measure
- roof option harder to install
- More expensive than other options
Venetian blinds
- Narrower slat options vulnerable to bending
- Average ability to block full sunlight
- Dangling cords and tilt wand
- Difficult to clean individual slats
Wood Blinds
- As a natural product, susceptible to warping
- Average ability to block full sunlight
- Difficult to clean
- Dangling cords
Woven Shades
- Translucent, allowing a lot of light to penetrate through the shade
- May look out of place in modern interiors
- Dangling adjustment cords
Plantation shutters
- More difficult to install
- More expensive than other options
- No motorised option available
- Requires more space to retract open
Remember to Always Keep Blind Cords Out of Reach of children!
